Taree civic heart cash call

IT'S short notice and it's a unique idea to raise quick cash to finance the Tidy Up Taree civic heart project.

IT'S short notice and it's a unique idea to raise quick cash to finance the Tidy Up Taree civic heart project.

Acclaimed placemaker David Engwicht will return to Taree on August 5 to help business owners in the central business district to develop creative ways to enhance the footpath space in their street. The event will be held in the Waterfront Room at The Exchange Hotel from 6.30pm and the ticket price will be $100 per business.

The price of the ticket will be directed to the civic heart project, and according to Tidy Up Taree organiser, Graham Brown, the objective is to rally 200 businesses to deliver a start-up capital of $20,000.

"We need money to get this project underway," Mr Brown said.

"Taree CBD businesses have been given the opportunity to enhance their footpaths. A 'permissions to act' trial is due to start in September and to make this trial a success, we all need to think about what we can do to activate our footpaths.

"If we work together to make this trial a success, we will forge a new way of using footpaths in our town centres with a lot less 'red tape' and costs."

Mr Brown said the civic heart project is integral to the success of transforming the central business district of Taree during the trial period.

"The area in front of Centrelink will be transformed with public art, grassy mounds, colourful facades and inviting seats. It will provide a place for people to meet and linger," Mr Brown explained.

"Planning is underway for this transformation to occur on November 28 and 29 and will be celebrated with an inaugural night bazaar.

"This project is driven by volunteers and donated materials. However, some funds are need to make the transformation robust and professional. Entry fees from David's Engwicht's presentation will be used to assist this project."

To register attendance at the event please contact Mr Brown at GPB Partners on 6551 1660.